Leonberger Dog Rescue: 5 Places to Adopt the Breed

The Leonberger dog breed is large, and this energetic 100- to 150-pound addition to a family may turn out to be more than some people can handle.

So if you’re considering getting a Leonberger, take a look at rescue organizations that place dogs for people who are unable to keep them.

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Here are five places to look if you’d like to rescue a puppy or older Leonberger dog:

1. LeoRescue

This is a nonprofit, volunteer organization that finds homes for abandoned, unwanted, or abused Leonberger dogs.  “Our working rule for placing dogs is to find out what the dog is about, what its needs are, and match those features and traits to a family able to provide the best possible environment for the dog to succeed,” the organization’s website said. The organization works throughout the United States.

2. Leo Rescue Canada

This group works throughout the Canadian territories to find a home for Leonbergers. “We are dedicated to the rescue, care and placement of lost, surrendered, and homeless Leonbergers,” the organization’s website said. “We also provide public education on the breed and promote responsible dog ownership.”

3. Gentle Giants Rescue and Adoptions

It bills itself as the largest adoption agency in the world specializing in the giant dog breeds, such as Leonbergers and mastiffs. The California nonprofit said the dogs available change constantly so keep an eye on the website for available Leonbergers.

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4. LeoPALS

This organization is a U.S. national nonprofit that works to place Leonberger dogs in new homes, also offering education on the pros and cons of owning one of these large-breed dogs. 

“We offer education in areas we believe will begin to reduce the problems of homeless Leonbergers: A realistic look at the pros and cons of owning a Leonberger dog, skills that ease the transition of a rescue Leo into the home and pack, information on the direct link between puppy mills and retail pet store sales, and the increased numbers of Leonbergers in rescue,” the organization’s website said.

“Finally, we offer support to Leo owners - new and old – who face issues that could impact keeping their dogs. We want to reach those people before rescue is their only option.”

5. Leos in Need of Rescue Inc.

This group works to rescue, rehome, and rehabilitate Leonberger dogs. “In addition to preserving the integrity and health of the Leonberger breed, this group works in partnership with rescue groups of all breeds to end the horror of puppy mills, especially those that sell Leonberger puppies,” the website said.

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